Indy Standard

Intentional breathing has been shown by experts to help a multitude of body functions, including mental and physical responses to stress, but it can't always be achieved by those suffering with sinus issues. 

Practicing intentional breathing may be inhibited by health conditions, such as sinusitis, which can be linked to multiple other health issues like elevated stress and lack of sleep without most people even realizing it. 

Dr. Anthony D. Sanders at the Indianapolis Sinus Center said that a minimally invasive procedure can be done for those with sinus issues to help them achieve the full benefits of intentional breathing. 

"Our philosophy is to provide the very best state-of-the-art care for chronic nasal and sinus problems utilizing the latest minimally invasive technologies to allow for physiologic treatment and maintaining normal nasal function as well as reduced pain and shorter recovery times. Typically, people can be back to work within a few days after the procedure," Dr. Sanders told the Indy Standard. 

Quicker breathing, which can be a symptom of sinusitis, can activate multiple areas of the brain, arousing many types of emotional responses, including fear, jealousy and anger, a Havard Medical School article stated. For those who suffer from sinusitis, the ability to breathe slower, especially through the nose, as is best practice for intentional breathing, are not able to do so easily and may suffer from other health ailments because of this. 

According to the article, intentional breathing can help reduce stress. Prolonged stress can cause immune system suppression, resulting in colds and higher blood pressure, and can create anxiety and depression. Intentional breathing can also help regulate the nervous system and focus one's attention. 

Some easy steps to practice intentional breathing include finding a quiet place and begin with a normal breath, then move to slowly breathe through your nose as deeply as you can, exhaling through the mouth. Focus on this type of breathing for 10-20 minutes each day to help breathe better and reduce stress.

If you believe you are suffering from sinusitis, or chronic sinusitis, consult a doctor or take the Indianapolis Sinus Center sinus test to see what issues you may be suffering from.